Cancer Patients' Perspectives On The Real-World Impact Of Covid-19 Pandemic: A Multidisciplinary Survey

Background: The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented disruptions to global cancer care delivery We conducted this multidisciplinary survey to gain insights into the real-life impact of the pandemic as perceived by cancer patients Methods: Cancer patients at various stages of their cancer journeys were surveyed with a questionnaire constructed by a multidisciplinary panel of oncologists, clinical psychologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and dieticians The 64-question survey covered patient\u0027s concerns on cancer care resources, treatment provision and quality, changes in health-seeking behaviour;the impact of social isolation on physical wellbeing and psychological repercussions Results: 600 cancer patients in Hong Kong were surveyed in May 2020 Preliminary results showed that 70% of respondents related a COVID-19 diagnosis to compromised cancer treatment and outcome Although only 45% considered hospital attendance as safe, 80% indicated their willingness to attend oncology appointments remained unaffected 91% of patients stated their decision to receive chemotherapy was not changed;however, 40% would be willing to trade off the efficacy/side-effect profile for an outpatient regimen Patients also reported compromised physical wellbeing due to social isolation, in particular, deterioration in exercise tolerance \u0026 limb power (44%), reduced appetite (29%), worse sleep quality (35%) Interestingly, 59% of pts reported better care support as a result of family spending more time together Anxiety and depression were reported in 70% and 54% of patients, respectively In addition, 20 oncologists provided their predictions on changes in pt\u0027s health-seeking behaviours under the pandemic Results showed that they significantly underestimated patients\u0027 willingness and preference to keep their scheduled oncology appointments and treatments despite the risk involved Conclusions: This original survey revealed the breadth and profoundness of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic as perceived by cancer patients, headlining patients’ care priorities and showing their unmet needs It should be taken into consideration as we modify the way cancer care is provided during this unsettling period and beyond Legal entity responsible for the study: The authors Funding: The Kowloon Central Cluster Research Committee KCC Research Grant 2020/21, Hong Kong (KCC/RC/G/2021-B01) Disclosure: All authors have declared no conflicts of interest